AUDIO: Browns to honor Jim Brown tonight

3 years ago

(Cleveland) - The Cleveland Browns will honor one of the most extraordinary athletes in sports history during the nationally broadcast Browns-Bills game at FirstEnergy Stadium tonight.

The legendary Jim Brown will be recognized by his only NFL team in a fitting tribute that the team says will be among the most singular memories in the team’s rich history.

A City of Cleveland Proclamation makes October 3 “Jim Brown Day,” as declared by Mayor Frank Jackson.

Brown will be recognized during a halftime ceremony, honoring his contributions to the Browns and the City of Cleveland, on and off the field.

During pregame, Brown will join five breast-cancer survivors as honorary coin-toss captains.

Throughout the game, Brown’s No. 32 will be displayed on lapel pins and buttons worn by all game day staff at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns have also designed a special logo to commemorate the event.

“We are absolutely thrilled to formally honor Jim Brown, the greatest running back in the history of the NFL,” said Owner Jimmy Haslam. “Jim is synonymous with the Cleveland Browns. He has an undeniable place in our history and we look forward to celebrating him appropriately on Oct. 3.”

“When Jimmy Haslam invited me to do this, I was flattered,” Brown said. “That night will be about family, about joining together with the city, the region and the greatest fans in all the NFL, in a celebration of the Cleveland Browns. I’m thrilled about the opportunity.”

“We look forward to celebrating Jim Brown this Thursday with football fans in Cleveland and throughout the country,” said CEO Joe Banner. “I’ve always admired Jim. He is not only a cherished member of the Browns, but his contributions to the NFL and its national prevalence are immeasurable.”

“You cannot think of the Cleveland Browns or the City of Cleveland without thinking of Jim Brown,” Mayor Jackson said. “He brought prominence to the team and to this city. I am honored to join the city, fans and Cleveland Browns in celebrating this football legend.”

Brown finished his Pro Football Hall of Fame career with 12,312 rushing yards and one of the top per-carry averages (5.2) ever established by a running back.